Electrolyte Imbalance in Cataract Patients.

ABSTRACT

100 cataract patients of IGGMC attending Biochemistry OPD for routine Blood sugar, were estimated for serum electrolyte level i.e. Sodium, Potassium level and compared with normal healthy age related ( 50-70 yrs) control by t test. Plasma Glucose level (to rule out Diabetes) and serum Creatinine (to rule out renal disorder) in both cases and control were also studied. Result of our study shows Elevation in serum Na level in cataract pts mean 148.52 + /-4.13 meq/lt compared to control mean 139.26 +/-3.08 meq/lt (p value 0.001) which is significantly high. Normal Serum Na level is required to maintain proper water electrolyte balance across lens membrane that in turn is also responsible for maintaining lens membrane permeability. Elevation in serum Na level in cataract pts may result into its further increase in aqueous humor of lens which may lead to osmotic imbalance across lens membrane and aggravate, progression of disease. We conclude that salt restricted Diet must be advised in Cataract patients so as to maintain normal electrolyte balance which may prevent further progression of disease.